This section describes the conceptual theory and thinking behind Supplemental Transportation Programs for Seniors (STPs). It is the theory described in this section which serves as a model or "blueprint" for those who wish to develop their own STPs program.
Browse the following links for additional information:
On The Road to Senior Friendly Transportation
The 5 A’s
Studies undertaken by the Beverly Foundation have resulted in an understanding of what seniors and their concerned family and friends believe are effective, usable transportation alternatives. While emphasis often is placed on making public and paratransit available to meet the transportation needs of seniors who do not drive, availability of public or paratransit does not necessarily assure that the transportation needs of seniors will be met. Why? Because seniors who do not drive, frequently cannot walk to a bus stop, cannot get into a van, cannot get to a physician’s office without an escort, or cannot afford a taxi.
What can make transportation more “senior friendly”? Rather than emphasize a single factor such as availability, seniors, caregivers, and professionals in aging say that transportation also needs to be accessible, acceptable, adaptable, and affordable.
These have been identified as the 5 A’s of Senior Friendly Transportation.
Availability: Transportation exists and is available when needed (e.g., transportation
is at hand, evenings and/or weekends).
Accessibility: Transportation can be reached and used (e.g., bus stairs can be negotiated;
bus seats are high enough; van comes to the door; bus stop is reachable).
Acceptability: Deals with standards relating to conditions such as cleanliness (e.g., the
bus is not dirty); safety (e.g., bus stops are located in safe areas); and
user-friendliness (e.g., transit operators are courteous and helpful).
Affordability: Deals with costs (e.g., fees are affordable; fees are comparable to or less
than driving a car; vouchers or coupons help defray out-of-pocket expenses).
Adaptability: Transportation can be modified or adjusted to meet special needs (e.g.,
wheelchair can be accommodated; trip chaining is possible).
Whether communities are considering the adaptation of existing transportation options or the creation of new ones, the 5 A’s of Senior Friendly Transportation can provide some guidance in making decisions about how to best meet the needs of seniors for transportation.
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